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Inflatable Microhome Crafted from Recycled Plastic for Urban Living

Authors:
Sebastián Núñez yáñez, Sebastián Miranda quiroz
Inflatable Microhome Crafted from Recycled Plastic for Urban Living

Project in-detail

Constructed from recycled plastic, this inflatable microhome offers a flexible living solution that adapts to the space constraints of urban environments, emphasizing sustainability while meeting modern housing needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inflatable structure allows for easy transport and setup in various urban locations.
02
Utilizes recycled plastic as a primary material for environmental sustainability.
03
Elevated platform design optimizes space in densely populated areas.
04
Integrates flexible workspaces to accommodate remote working trends.
05
Water tanks are incorporated into the structural framework for efficiency.

EXPERIMENTAL HOUSE 04 - INFLATABLE MICROHOME is an architectural proposal that redefines urban living by focusing on sustainability and adaptability. Located within a growing city, the design addresses issues such as plastic waste and the need for flexible housing solutions. It combines practical living spaces with an awareness of environmental responsibility, creating a home that responds to the dynamics of modern city life.

Sustainability and Material Use

The project prioritizes the reuse of plastic waste, tackling the environmental challenges associated with plastic production. Recycled plastic serves as the main material for the inflatable structure, reflecting a commitment to ecological awareness. This choice not only helps reduce waste but also highlights the potential of innovative materials in design.

Adaptive Urban Integration

With urban populations expected to double by 2050, the design explores ways to effectively use limited space in crowded areas. The inflatable microhome is designed to fit into unconventional urban spaces, making it a practical solution for city living. The elevated platform, measuring 5.5 meters by 3 meters, optimizes vertical space, maximizing the area while minimizing the ground footprint.

Functional Living Spaces

The interior layout is designed to support both living and working needs, reflecting contemporary lifestyle changes. By incorporating workspaces within the home, the design acknowledges the trend of remote work. This setup allows residents to move easily from one activity to another, making effective use of their living environment.

Structural Considerations

Steel is used for the framework and water tanks, ensuring stability and durability in the inflatable home. This combination of materials reinforces the structure while also supporting the outer inflatable layer. The balance between these materials contributes to a practical design that serves the needs of urban residents.

The inflatable skin around the microhome not only protects the space but also lets natural light in, creating an inviting atmosphere. This feature offers insulation and comfort while enhancing the overall aesthetic of the home. The design aims to create a pleasant living environment that connects well with the surrounding urban landscape.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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